Citation

Sargeant S, Vanderputten R. ITE J. 2009; 79(2): 24-28.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, Institute of Transportation Engineers)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Although roundabouts have been used in Calgary, Canada in a number of applications, until recently there was no formal policy or direction to pursue roundabouts for traffic control. In 2006, the city began to develop a roundabout guide. As part of this effort, standard roundabout concepts were developed of existing roadway cross sections and the identification of right-of-way requirements for various intersection types. This article discusses the process and provides background information on the application of roundabouts in a medium-sized urban region. Two critical decisions were reached early in the process: (1) defining what level of traffic necessitated a traffic calming circle versus a roundabout; and (2) allowing design engineers flexibility when creating new intersection designs. The process considered the needs of various stakeholders. The standard requires additional right of way for undivided and divided roadways. Current right of way is sufficient to accommodate single or multilane roundabouts. The city of Calgary currently is working to address other outstanding issues related to roundabout implementation in order to ensure a consistent approach in the future.